Tony Bellew and Chris Eubank Jr pay tribute to the legendary George Foreman

The boxing world is mourning the passing of George Foreman after it was announced by his family that the former two-time heavyweight champion had died. 

At the peak of his powers, Foreman was one of boxing’s most devastating fighters as he ripped through numerous contenders on his way to glory during boxing’s golden era in the 1970s. 

An Olympic gold medalist in 1968, Forman carried on where he left off in the amateurs when he turned pro as he blazed his way to a world title shot against Joe Frazier in 1973. 

The contest was eagerly anticipated, but Foreman made light work of the champion as he stopped Frazier in two rounds to sit atop the heavyweight division. 

The following year, in one of boxing’s most iconic fights, Foreman would endure defeat for the first time as he was stopped by Muhammad Ali in Zaire, the famous ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ fight. 

Despite the setback, Foreman’s stock was still high due to the worldwide acclaim the fight received, and he continued to be a big draw in fights against solid operators such as Ron Lyle and Scott LeDoux. 

After losing to Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman would exit boxing for a sustained period before retuning ten years later. 

Failed world title tilts against Evander Holyfield and Tommy Morrison didn’t deter Foreman and in 1994, 21 years after beating Frazier, Foreman knocked out Michael Moorer to once again become heavyweight champion. 

After defeat to Shannon Briggs in 1997, Foreman wouldn't fight again, but his fame from boxing would help in retirement as his name adorned a series of grills that became an essential household item. 

Tony Bellew was one of the first boxers to pay tribute to Foreman on social media. 

“RIP to one of the greatest human beings to ever put on boxing gloves. This man was truly amazing!,” wrote Bellew on his X account. 

“There is no doubt imo he’s the greatest puncher boxing has ever seen. Rest easy king the world is a lesser place without you.” 

Chris Eubank Jr was equally gracious in his tribute to Foreman. 

“Rest in Peace to one of my boxing heroes - The Legendary George Foreman,” said the middleweight contender. 

More comments will follow in the coming days regarding the passing of Foreman as one of boxing’s greatest ever champions rightfully claims the respect he deserves.